Sports

Sports Minister Congratulates Usman

Published

5 years ago

July 14, 2020

Encomium has continued to trail the exploits of Nigerian born pugilist Kamarudeen Usman for retaining his Ultimate fighting Championship belt against Jorge Masvidal over the weekend.

According to a statement by the Media Office of Youth and Sports Development Minister Mr. Sunday Dare, Usman’s win is not only inspiring, but a confirmation of the never say die Nigerian spirit.

“A big congratulations to Usman for making Nigeria proud by retaining his Ultimate fighting Championship title against Jorge Masvidal. His tenacity, courage and consistency are typical of the Nigerian spirit of never giving up. He is not only a worthy champion but a great Nigerian in whom we are all proud.

“Once again he has shown that he is not just a patriot, but an embodiment of a great athlete who has projected the image of our dear country before the whole world positively. You are indeed a great Ambassador of Nigeria,” the statement concluded.

Usman retained his title via unanimous decision in Abu Dhabi on Sunday. The fight was almost called off due to a disagreement overpay. Masvidal was named as a last-minute replacement to his earlier challenger Gilbert Burns who pulled out after he tested positive for Covid-19.

The feat is Usman’s 11th successful win in 3 title defense in the United Arab Emirates. Usman earned $600,000 appearance fee and $40,000 as incentives, while his challenger got $500,000.

The Nigerian Nightmare has won 16 of his last 17 fights, losing only to Jose Caseres in 2013.

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Sports

No crisis in NAWIS ahead of AFN elections on Monday

Published

19 mins ago

June 8, 2025

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

The Association of Nigerian Women in Sports (NAWIS), known for its orderliness since its establishment in 1990, continues to uphold its standards ahead of the upcoming Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) elections.

With members across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, NAWIS has consistently operated without external interference.

Over the years, its members have been nominated to various boards of national sports federations after meeting established criteria, including the payment of annual dues.

The association has attracted a strong base of respected sportswomen who have served the country with distinction, both during and after their active careers.

In preparation for the AFN elections, zonal elections were conducted on June 2 and 3, producing representatives for the national exercise.

While NAWIS initially planned to hold its election in Zaria, Kaduna State, the association’s headquarters, it was later rescheduled for Abuja on Monday, June 9, following directives from higher authorities.

Importantly, NAWIS has a set of strict guidelines that govern its electoral process, particularly the requirement for timely payment of annual dues. Failure to meet this condition results in automatic disqualification.

This guideline was the basis for the disqualification of Maria Wophil, who has reportedly not paid her annual dues since 2017. Her attempt to hurriedly settle outstanding debts just before the election was deemed non-compliant with NAWIS regulations.

Who is Fatima Yusuf-Olukoju?

Commonwealth gold medallist Fatima Yusuf-Olukoju is one of the leading contenders for the NAWIS representative position in the AFN.

She made history as the first African woman to run the 400m in under 50 seconds and brought glory to Nigeria by winning a silver medal in the 4x400m relay at the Atlanta 1996 Olympics.

Yusuf-Olukoju also claimed gold in the 400m at the 1991 All-Africa Games and silver in the 200m.

Based on nominations and her track record, Yusuf-Olukoju is considered the most qualified candidate. However, three other contenders have also shown interest, and the final decision will be made in the election slated for Monday, June 9, in Abuja.

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